Michael Bates

Michael Dion Bates (born December 19, 1969) is an American former two-sport athlete who gained fame as a sprinter who won an Olympic bronze medal in the 200-meter dash in 1992. He also played football as a kick returner in the National Football League (NFL), where he was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. He played college football for the Arizona Wildcats. Early years Bates attended Amphitheater High School, where he lettered in football and track. He played as a running back, recording more than 1,000 rushing yards in each of his last three seasons. As a senior, although he played in only 8 games because of an injury, he still managed to run for 1,557 yards. He set state records in the 100 metres (10.34 seconds) and 200 metres (20.68 seconds). He bypassed his senior season in track, while disputing some scheduling rules by the Arizona Interscholastic Association. As a senior, he received Parade magazine All-American, The Arizona Republic's male Athlete of the Year and Long Beach Press-Telegram "Best in the West" honors. He was rated by Parade as the second-best prospect in the country at running back behind Terry Kirby.